Q & A

What drew you to aviation? My father. Although he was not a pilot, he had been a reporter for several aviation magazines in the thirties and his love for aviation was infectious.

How long have you been involved in aviation education? 19 years / over 9500 hours of dual instruction given.

What’s your favorite part of what you do in aviation education? Having an opportunity to influence my fellow aviators in helping to make them safer pilots… Seeing the smile spread across the face of the client in the left seat on an intro flight at the moment of rotation… Seeing the smile on a client’s face when they break out of IMC right at minimums and the runway really is right there in front of them.

What’s your least favorite part of what you do in aviation education? Having to issue a “pink slip” on a practical test. In most cases it’s because the applicant’s instructor has not fulfilled their “responsibilities” in preparing them to be a safe pilot.

Do you have a memorable aviation experience you’d like to share? Flying in a rain shower on a summer’s day and looking out the window to see a rainbow encircling the airplane :~}

Why did you join SAFE? So that I could have the chance to offer my energy and experience in helping to make aviation education a viable career path, and thus having a positive influence in creating safer skies.

What would you like to see change in aviation? I would like to see the aviation educator gain the respect and recognition of the entire aviation community as the most important job there is in aviation. We are the ones who build the “foundation” upon which all the rest of aviation stands.

Any suggestions on how the above might be accomplished? As long as SAFE maintains it’s founding principles, adhering to it’s mission and vision statements as it grows and matures, this WILL be accomplished!

Any accomplishments in, or noteworthy contributions to aviation and/or aviation education you’d like to mention? After I landed, I not only walked away, but they were able to use the airplane again. Sometimes one gets lucky.

Who are your role models in aviation? Rich Stowell – his energy and dedication are not to be believed. Bob Martens – he is not only my guru in aviation safety, but a role model in how to live a truly proper life!

Anything else you’d like to add? My sincere gratitude goes out to all who have stepped up to the plate, in whatever fashion,big or small, to help in the growth of SAFE!